Local group marking Black History Month with walk in Central Park

A local organization is hosting a walk to celebrate Black History Month in Burnaby this weekend.

The Black History Walk this Saturday, Feb. 25 at 1:30pm at Central Park is being put on by the group Ethiopian Affairs in BC, which aims to promote and celebrate Ethiopian history and culture in the Lower Mainland.

“We are celebrating Black [Canadians] who are doing something great for the achievement of our country, Canada. So we are celebrating and honouring Harry Jerome, the Olympic bronze medalist, this year,” said organizer Moges Seblehiwot.

Seblehiwot said the event is also intended to commemorate the Battle of Adwa in 1896, which constituted a significant Ethiopian victory against the colonizing Italian forces.

“The Ethiopian army’s victory checked Italy’s attempt to build an empire in Africa. The victory had further significance for being the first crushing defeat of a European power by African forces during the colonial era,” writes Encylopedia Britannica on the battle.

The walk on Saturday will begin at Swangard Stadium. Seblehiwot said organizers are expecting about 300-400 people, but all are welcome to attend.

“It's family-friendly. So let's come together and feel alright. And let's add some value or to the mosaic of a beautiful Burnaby,” he said.

“Let's do our part and let's celebrate Black history together.”

This is the second annual Black History Walk put on by Ethiopian Affairs in BC.